Before we dive into the importance of asbestos survey, let's first understand what asbestos is and why it's dangerous. Asbestos is a group of six naturally occurring fibrous minerals that were widely used in construction from the 1930s until the 1980s. When asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) are disturbed or damaged, microscopic fibers are released into the air, which can be inhaled and cause serious health problems.

Asbestos exposure can lead to several diseases, including mesothelioma (a rare cancer that affects the lining of the lungs and other organs), asbestosis (a chronic lung disease that can cause shortness of breath, coughing, and chest pain), and lung cancer. The risk of developing these diseases depends on several factors, such as the amount and duration of exposure, the type of asbestos fibers involved, and individual factors like age, smoking history, and pre-existing lung conditions.